Things to Know About Weight Loss Drugs for Teens

Four weight loss drugs, namely Wegovy, Saxenda, orlistat, and Qsymia approved to treat teens obesity over age 12 and above

Weight Loss Drugs For Teens Obesity

Childhood obesity rates are on the rise in the U.S., affecting nearly 1 in 5 kids and adolescents between the ages of 2 and 19. To combat this growing health concern, experts are now recommending early and intensive treatment, which may include the use of weight loss medications for some children.

For the first time, anti-obesity medications are recommended by the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP). emphasizing the importance of offering weight loss drugs to adolescents aged 12 and up with obesity.

However, this decision has sparked controversy, with concerns raised about potential harm and the need for long-term use of these medications.

Weight Loss Drugs for Teens: The Guidelines

The AAP guidelines advise pediatricians to offer weight loss drugs to adolescents aged 12 and above who are dealing with obesity, alongside promoting healthy eating habits and regular exercise.

Four weight loss drugs, namely Wegovy, Saxenda, orlistat, and Qsymia, are approved for use in teens as young as 12. Wegovy and Saxenda are examples of the increasingly popular class of medications known as GLP-1 agonists.

The Controversy Surrounding Weight Loss Drugs

The inclusion of weight loss drugs in the guidelines has sparked concerns, particularly among groups focused on treating and preventing eating disorders.

They worry that using weight loss drugs may contribute to an increase in eating disorders among youths. Experts in the field, however, suggest using these drugs only in severe cases of obesity, accompanied by comorbidities.

How Long Should Teens Be on Weight Loss Drugs?

A common question from parents is how long their child should be on a weight loss drug. While studies have shown that adults may require long-term use of GLP-1 agonist drugs to maintain weight loss, there’s limited data available for adolescents.

Experts liken the use of obesity drugs to other medications for chronic diseases, emphasizing that long-term treatment may be necessary for sustained results.

The Ideal Time to Start Weight Loss Medication

The AAP guidelines recommend weight loss drugs for teens aged 12 and above with obesity. However, there’s no specific age or weight threshold for starting medication.

Decisions depend on the severity of the case and whether the child’s weight is impacting their health in other ways.

Pediatricians consider various factors, including BMI classification and the presence of comorbidities, when deciding on the appropriate course of action.

Balancing Weight Loss Drugs with Diet and Exercise

Although weight loss drugs have shown effectiveness, they do not provide a complete cure for obesity. These drugs typically result in about 15% weight loss, which may not be sufficient for those with severe obesity.

Combining a low carbohydrate diet with a potentially lower dose of weight loss drugs has been suggested as a possible approach.

The focus remains on emphasizing a healthy diet and regular exercise, even when using weight loss medications.

Potential Side Effects of Weight Loss Drugs

The new class of weight loss drugs has garnered attention for its side effects, including upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These effects are a result of the drugs’ mechanism, which slows down the digestion process.

However, experts agree that these side effects are relatively mild compared to previous generations of weight loss drugs and surgical options. Long-term studies are ongoing to monitor any additional side effects that may arise.

Conclusion

Weight loss drugs for teens can be a valuable tool in addressing teen obesity, but their use requires careful consideration and medical supervision. Pediatricians must evaluate each case individually, taking into account the severity of obesity and potential comorbidities.

Balancing medication with a healthy lifestyle, including a proper diet and regular exercise, is crucial for successful and sustainable weight loss.

As the medical community continues to learn more about the long-term effects, it remains essential to prioritize the overall health and well-being of teens dealing with obesity.

FAQs about Weight Loss Drugs for Teens Obesity

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Narendra

Greetings! I’m Narendra your guide to holistic health at Blogcitynews.com. A devoted health and wellness expert offers deep insights and thorough reviews on everything holistic health. Fueled by a fervent passion for enhancing well-being and empowering readers with informed choices, My content is designed to Reveal the truth to motivate and support you on your path to optimal health. Join Me to unravels the secrets to living better, Naturally.